Mad Girl - Fantastic girl!
Your write up reminded me of my very first solo flight over 15 years ago. You hear about all of those that go smoothly and how fantastic it was, blah, blah.
On my first solo I took off without having set the flaps. I knew that it wasn't right when I did my checks after take off. ATC changed runways on me... So that added some more time in the air (loved it) The landing went well ..... Until I lost my nerve as it seemed to float on forever (AA5) and I decided that I should go around. I opened the throttle and "forgot" the nose pitch up.
The next attempt went like a dream. Not having the bulk of another body by the side of you makes a lot of difference.
My instructor was a "real" instructor who was doing it for the love of it. Like yours he made damned sure I had all the tools (and could demonstrate that I had them) to deal with eventualities, before sending me out. Even if I did make a pigs ear of it first time. I learned a heck of a lot on that first solo. From that point on I really got on well with my instructor. I even told him about my fears and weaknesses, that I wouldn't do before that flight.
From what you have said. I feel that you will make a great pilot. Your instructor IMO is worth his weight in Gold. Keep hold of him! They are hard to find. I'm really happy for you.
Astral